The iconic Hollywood Sign has needed a proper restoration for several years. Although crews have repeatedly painted over graffiti, taggers quickly return, and simply painting over old, peeling layers only provides a short-term fix. This year the Sign is receiving a much more thorough treatment: the most extensive refurbishing effort in nearly 35 years, using Sherwin‑Williams Emerald Exterior Acrylic Latex paint to restore its signature bright white finish.
The full restoration is expected to take approximately eight to ten weeks and will require about 275 gallons of paint. As of now, the H and the first L are completely repainted, while work on the O and the second L is underway. The process involves careful, time‑intensive steps to remove failing coatings and prepare the metal surface properly before repainting.
Painters began by applying a stripping agent to dissolve existing paint layers—some areas had accumulated as many as five coats. Those coatings were hand‑removed and then pressure washed away, revealing a smooth, clean corrugated metal substrate ready for priming.
With the bare metal exposed, crews applied Sherwin‑Williams Pro‑Cryl primer. This acrylic primer is formulated for situations where corrosion and rust protection are important, ensuring a stable base for the topcoat and longer service life.
After priming, each letter receives two coats of Sherwin‑Williams Emerald Exterior paint in High Reflective White (SW 7757). This premium exterior coating resists blistering, peeling, chalking, fading, mildew, and dirt pickup, delivering a bright, reflective white that remains visible from a distance.
This comprehensive approach—removing old coatings, priming for corrosion protection, and applying a durable topcoat—aims to extend the Sign’s lifespan and reduce the frequency of future touchups. We will continue to share progress updates as the project advances. The next time you visit Los Angeles, look up to the hills and enjoy the refreshed landmark.